Trusted Masonry, Concrete, Brick & Stone Services in Kenosha, WI

Level III Inspections are recommended when a lower level inspection suggests there may be hazards beyond where accessible. Often, Level III fireplace and chimney inspections require tools and alterations to the fireplace and chimney system to allow for access to fully inspect what would normally be inaccessible portions of your fireplace and/or chimney.

A Level III inspection determines whether the fireplace and flue system is properly constructed/installed within concealed portions of the chimney/chase structure. It will include all the areas and items inspected with a lower level chimney inspection, as well as gaining access to areas of the chimney/chase structure that are not readily accessible in a traditional inspection. This may require removal of portions of the chimney structure (chimney crown, chase cover, interior wall/panel, or exterior brick.)

Masonry fireplaces are constructed with firebrick and high temp mortar to build the interior of the firebox structure. With age and use, joints in the fireplace and the firebrick themselves start to degrade, which is normal. When you discover loose or deteriorated mortar joints/firebrick, or cracks greater than 1/16th of an inch in width, it should be assessed for tuckpointing, brick replacement, or rebuild.

When you have a clay lined, masonry chimney, the temperatures that they experience can reach over 2000 degrees. This can cause thermal shock which cracks the clay tiles (if present), can melt mortar joints, can cause flues to collapse, and mortar to shift. The major concern when this occurs is to the surrounding combustible material where the chimney fire spreads to the surrounding areas in the home, creating further damage and risk.

The CSIA recommends, at minimum, having an annual inspection of your fireplace/firebox, flue system, and exterior. Cleaning can differ depending on how often you use your fireplace and the type of wood you are burning. The rule of thumb is approximately a face cord and a half of wood, but more often if the wood you are burning is not hard, dry, aged or left in the elements. On average this equates to approximately 50 or so fires.